Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose
CMC is sold by 2 percent solution viscosity, spanning 25 to 4000 mPa.s.
Key Specifications
| CAS number | 9004-32-4 |
|---|---|
| E number | E466 |
| Viscosity (2%) | 25-4000 mPa.s by grade |
| Degree of substitution | 0.65-0.90 |
| Purity | ≥ 99.5 percent |
| Mesh | 60 / 80 / 120 |
Viscosity grade is the specification that matters
CMC is sold by 2 percent solution viscosity, spanning 25 to 4000 mPa.s. Choosing a grade by viscosity rather than by name is what determines whether a formulation thickens, suspends or merely improves mouthfeel.
Where CMC beats xanthan and where it does not
CMC is cheaper than xanthan and gives a clean mouthfeel without the slimy note, which suits ice cream and beverages. It loses viscosity in high salt and at pH below 4, so it is the wrong choice for soy sauce or acidified drinks.
Typical Applications
- Ice cream — 0.2-0.4 percent controls ice crystal growth and improves melting resistance.
- Instant beverages — 0.1-0.3 percent high-viscosity grade gives body without settling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which grade for ice cream?
Medium viscosity, degree of substitution around 0.7, for a balance of body and freeze tolerance.
Is it stable in acid?
Down to about pH 4. Below that, viscosity drops sharply; use xanthan or pectin instead.
How does it compare with HPMC?
CMC is cheaper and water-soluble; HPMC also tolerates organic solvents and gives thermal gelation.
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